Kerala has set an ambitious target of increasing its daily milk production to 1 crore litres within the next three years, according to Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan. The announcement was made during discussions on the state’s dairy development strategy, which aims to strengthen milk self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on milk imports from neighboring states.
Satheesan noted that Kerala currently produces around 72 lakh litres of milk per day, leaving a significant gap between production and consumption requirements. To bridge this gap, the state plans to expand dairy farming activities, improve productivity and encourage greater participation from farmers in the organized dairy sector. The goal is expected to strengthen the state’s dairy economy while improving income opportunities for milk producers. (thehindu.com)
The proposal comes at a time when Kerala is intensifying efforts to support dairy farmers through higher procurement prices, infrastructure development and cooperative-led growth. Recently, Milma announced a ₹4 per litre increase in milk prices, with ₹3.35 per litre of the hike earmarked for dairy farmers to improve farm profitability and sustain milk production. Industry experts believe such measures could encourage farmers to expand herd sizes and invest in productivity-enhancing practices.
According to sector observers, achieving the 1 crore litre target will require substantial improvements in cattle productivity, fodder availability, veterinary healthcare, breeding programmes and farmer support services. Experts also stress the importance of attracting younger farmers into dairy farming and adopting modern technologies such as precision feeding, automated milking systems and digital herd management tools.
Kerala has traditionally been one of India’s major milk-consuming states but remains dependent on milk sourced from neighboring regions to meet demand. Increasing local production is expected to improve supply security, reduce transportation costs and strengthen the resilience of the state’s dairy supply chain.
Industry analysts say the initiative reflects a broader trend across India, where states are increasingly focusing on milk self-sufficiency, farmer welfare and value-added dairy development. If successful, Kerala’s plan could significantly enhance the state’s dairy ecosystem while supporting long-term growth in milk production and rural livelihoods.
Source: Dairynews7x7 03 June, 2026 Read full story here
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